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davedsel

I have managed moderate to severe chronic back pain for over 35 years. I was born with hyperkyphosis (middle section of spine curved outward too much) which has caused many problems as I've aged. I have DDD, severe osteoarthritis in my spine and entire body, a total of 8 herniated discs, bulging discs, fully degenerated (gone) discs, bone spurs, stenosis in 3 areas (C, T and L), retrolesthesis at T12/L1 plus a few other fun things.

I live with pain levels averaging a '6' on a scale of 1-10. I can only take enteric coated aspirin and a muscle relaxer as far as medication. In May 2008 I stretched and due to my spine being so unstable T12/L1 tipper outward more which tore ligaments and tendons. My pain levels soared up to a '10' and 3 doctors told me I could no longer work. I applied for SSD through an attorney and was approved in two months. Last March I turned 55 years old and started collection a small pension from a company I was with for 14 years. So, now I am officially disabled and retired.

I manage other health conditions such as Type 2 Diabetes, Bipolar Disorder, obesity, a history of blood clots in my left leg and lung and sleep apnea (treated with CPAP).

My faith, family and positive attitude have helped me to manage my pain and all health conditions as best as possible.

Unfortunately, it is against the rules in all WebMD communities to diagnose or offer any medical advice. To be honest, it would also be impossible. Your sis needs medical attention asap, either at a hospital emergency room or urgent care clinic.

Spinal surgery has only a 50%-60&% success rate for pain relief and up to an 80% success rate for improving functionality. It is extremely complex, major surgery with many risks. This is why it should only be a last resort after other treatments have been tried.

Usually doctors wait to do back surgery until you can barely walk or lose control of you bathroom functions. If the latter happens, get to a hospital emergency room right away.

There are many other methods of pain managements such as injections, rhizotomies (burning of the nerves), hydrotherapy, etc. I personally can only take enteric coated aspirin and a muscle relaxer for my serious spinal conditions that cause major chronic pain. I rely more on a good recliner, a good bed (my choice is sleep number) and chiropractic adjustments.

Your doctor that diagnoses your spinal conditions should be a spinal orthopedic specialist/surgeon or spinal neurologist/neurosurgeon. They are the best doctors for knowing what is causing your pain and for recommending effective treatments. You can also see a pain management specialist that is a physiatrist. These doctors go deeper and offer a wide variety of treatments.

It is always best to inform a new doctor of your complete medical history. A new pain management doctor would need to see what treatments you have had and how they worked for you. He/she also needs to see all your health conditions and know exactly how best to help you with your pain. The new doctor also must be aware of any allergies you have to medications.

You do have to sign a release for your new doctor to obtain your medical records, but it would be in your best interest to do this. My wife recently switched pain management doctors and had to have all her records transferred. The new doctor could not treat her if she dd not do this.

Also, I believe you need to make sure you do not have a contract with your current pain management specialist. I am not familiar with the specifics of this, but others in this community may be able to better address that aspect.

Definitely time to see another doctor. Spinal Neurologists or Spinal Orthopedic Specialists are the best doctors to see for back pain diagnosis and treatment. You may also need/want to see a pain management specialist that is a physiatrist. These doctors offer a wide variety of treatments.

I think asking your doctor and/or pharmacist for options would be your best course of action. I take enteric coated aspirin on a regular basis for pain relief, but I am not sure what you could take. With the liver problems even any products containing acetaminophen would not be good for you.

I am sorry you are going through all this and I do understand. It is hard to accept a condition that may not improve. Are you seeing a pain management specialist? That would be a good specialist to see, especially one that is a physiatrist. These doctors go deeper and offer a wide variety of methods and treatments.

There are medications specifically used for the fibro - Lyrica and Neurontin for example. You can discuss these with your doctor.

Keep doing your research. There are lots of websites that have information about spinal problems, fibro and chronic pain.Keep a positive attitude. Much easier said than done, but it helps to focus on the blessings in your life and what you are still able to do.Keep moving as much as possible. While difficult at times, it will only be worse if you stay too sedentary.

I have been managing moderate to severe chronic pain for over 35 years. My conditions are listed in my story and include fibro. I work hard at daily focusing on the good in my life - the blessings - and trying to keep a positive attitude. It is not easy, but it can be done and we can rise above circumstances and enjoy life.

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